A jury has been informed that Alan Harris, a former criminal defense solicitor, has been accused of sexually assaulting multiple clients at a police station and court.
Harris, aged 71 and residing in Thorn Park, Plymouth, is facing 30 charges. His trial commenced today at Winchester Crown Court in Hampshire, where he has pleaded not guilty to all accusations.
According to prosecutor Anne Whyte KC, Harris, who spent his career as a criminal solicitor in Plymouth, reportedly exploited his professional relationship with clients to engage in sexual abuse. Whyte mentioned that nine former clients, consisting of eight men and one woman, were allegedly victimized by Harris between 1989 and 2015 in Plymouth.
Whyte stated that the offenses occurred when the complainants, who are now in their middle age, were under 21, some even in their teens. She highlighted that many of these individuals, already with a history of criminal behavior, did not report the incidents at the time.
Detailing Harris’ modus operandi, Whyte explained that as a defense and duty solicitor, Harris would provide legal advice and hold private consultations at the police station’s custody suite or in the magistrates’ court. The alleged offenses primarily took place in the cells or conference rooms of Charles Cross police station or in the cells of Plymouth Magistrates’ Court.
Whyte portrayed Harris as taking advantage of vulnerable young males with troubled pasts, often addicted to substances and desperate to resolve their legal issues quickly. She emphasized that these individuals felt powerless to speak out due to their circumstances and dependency on Harris.
Addressing the jury, Whyte questioned how these victims, struggling with addiction and criminal records, could confront a respected solicitor in authority. She highlighted the imbalance of power and trust that Harris allegedly exploited.
Alan Harris has denied all allegations and is contesting the charges brought against him.
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